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E39 (1997 - 2003) The BMW 5-Series (E39 chassis) was introduced in the United States as a 1997 model year car and lasted until the 2004 when the E60 chassis was released. The United States saw several variations including the 525i, 528i, 530i and 540i. -- View the E39 Wiki

This is actually on the E38 but the systems are basically the same as far as I know.

The shade went down and wouldn't come back up again. I can hear the relay for the motor when I press the switch, but no movement. The motor was not trying to run from what I could hear. After having the battery disconnected for a bit tracing down a current draw (I tried the sun shade again, and it popped up. Movement was a little jumpy, though.

So, I think some plastic is binding in bad spots and needs to be lubricated. I've left it in the up position so I can access it. Does anyone have instructions for where to lube the mechanisms, and is white lithium grease fine with these plastics?